Modern Dance in India – UPSC Notes – Art and Culture

Modern Dance in India began in the 20th century, mixing classical and folk dances. Unlike classical dances, it isn’t as strictly defined. Uday Shankar (1900-1977) played a crucial role in its development. He showcased Indian dance and music in the West with his group, the ‘Hindu Dancers’, between 1929 and 1938. Anna Pavlova, a Russian ballet dancer, chose him as her partner for the ballet ‘Radha and Krishna’ (1923). Uday Shankar, recognizing the expressive potential of Indian dances, choreographed ballets like ‘A Hindu Wedding’ and ‘Tandava Nritya’, performed in Paris in 1931. Some of his famous ballets include ‘Shiva-Parvati’, ‘Rhythm of Life’ (1938), and ‘Labour and Machinery’ (1939). He even made a groundbreaking dance-themed film called ‘Kalpana’. Uday Shankar is often referred to as the ‘Father of Modern Dance in India‘.

About Uday Shankar

Uday Shankar was a dancer who mixed things up. Back in the 1930s, he began by dancing in Paris cafes and cabarets, and later teamed up with the famous dancer Anna Pavlova. He brought a taste of Indian ballet to Western audiences, showcasing various dance styles, colorful costumes, and vibrant colors. Uday Shankar did things differently by blending Nirtta (pure dance) and Abhinaya (expressive elements).

In his modern dance style, he focused on the body’s movement for its own sake. Unlike the usual way, he composed music after planning the dance, giving priority to the free-flowing movement of the body. Some of his standout productions include Lanka Dahan, Panchatantra, and more.

Modern Dance and Movies

Dance has always been a big part of Indian movies. In films, you can see all kinds of dances – from classical and traditional to modern and even dances from other parts of the world. Movies have played a big role in making new and modern dance styles popular. Nowadays, there are also many dance schools where people can learn these cool and trendy dance moves.

Some famous places for learning these dances are the Attakkalari Centre for Movement Arts in Bangalore, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Terence Lewis Academy, and Gati Dance Forum in Delhi.

Because of movies, and also because of the influence of other countries, Indian dance has changed a lot. People now mix modern and old dance styles. More and more Indians are also trying out dances from different countries like ballet, freestyle dance, and Polka Ten Step.

Is the Future of Indian Classical and Folk Dance in Danger due to Modern Dance?

Some people are worried that the increasing popularity of non-Indian dance forms in India might harm traditional dances like Indian classical and folk dances. They think that as Western influences grow, our ancient dance forms might not be as interesting to people anymore. But, these concerns are not really true. Classical dances are still loved by many, and not just in India – even in other countries!

For example, there’s a lady named Ileana Citaristi from Italy who came to India in 1979 to learn Indian dance forms. She loved it so much, especially Odissi, that she never went back to Italy.

However, there are some real challenges that Indian classical dance faces. Firstly, people nowadays have less time and shorter attention spans, thanks to technology and fast-paced lives. Secondly, getting enough money for classical dance events is tough. To make classical concerts reach a big audience, you need a lot of investment.

The good news is that the basics of Indian classical traditions are strong, and these dances can adapt to changes. But, we need to solve the issues of funding. The government and others should help so that our classical dance traditions don’t face any threats. And let’s not forget about folk dances – they need support too to survive in India.

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FAQs on Modern Dance in India

Q: What is modern dance in India? A: Modern dance in India is a creative amalgamation of classical and folk dances, evolving in the 20th century. Unlike classical dance forms, modern dance in India is not codified in a detailed manner.

Q: Who is the well-known dancer of modern India? A: Uday Shankar is credited as the Father of Modern Indian Dance. Other famous modern dancers in India include Shanti Bardhan, Shobana Jeyasingh, Amala Shankar, Dr. Manjushree Chaki-Sarkar, Ranjabati Sarkar, and more.

Q: What is the modern dance style? A: Modern dance is a creative dance form with a contemporary approach. It uses abstract movements to express ideas, feelings, and emotions. Modern dance embraces a variety of movements, has no strict boundaries, and utilizes space to create a unique style.

Q: Who is the father of modern dance in India? A: Uday Shankar is honored as the Father of Modern Indian Dance. Interestingly, he did not have a background in dance before being recognized as the founder of modern dance in India.

Q: Who introduced modern dance? A: Loie Fuller, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, and Ted Shawn are considered pioneers of modern dance in America. They played crucial roles in shaping and popularizing the modern dance movement.